Z77 Pro3

User Manual

Version 1.1
Published July 2012
Copyright2012 ASRock INC. All rights reserved.

Copyright Notice:
No part of this manual may be reproduced, transcribed, transmitted, or translated in
any language, in any form or by any means, except duplication of documentation by
the purchaser for backup purpose, without written consent of ASRock Inc.
Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for
identification or explanation and to the owners benefit, without intent to infringe.

Disclaimer:
Specifications and information contained in this manual are furnished for informational use only and subject to change without notice, and should not be constructed
as a commitment by ASRock. ASRock assumes no responsibility for any errors or
omissions that may appear in this manual.
With respect to the contents of this manual, ASRock does not provide warranty of
any kind, either expressed or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties or conditions of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
In no event shall ASRock, its directors, officers, employees, or agents be liable for
any indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages (including damages for
loss of profits, loss of business, loss of data, interruption of business and the like),
even if ASRock has been advised of the possibility of such damages arising from
any defect or error in the manual or product.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
CALIFORNIA, USA ONLY
The Lithium battery adopted on this motherboard contains Perchlorate, a toxic
substance controlled in Perchlorate Best Management Practices (BMP) regulations
passed by the California Legislature. When you discard the Lithium battery in California, USA, please follow the related regulations in advance.
Perchlorate Material-special handling may apply, see
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate
ASRock Website: http://www.asrock.com

Contents
1 Introduction.......................................................... 5
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4

Package Contents..........................................................
Specifications..................................................................
Motherboard Layout........................................................
I/O Panel .......................................................................

5
6
13
14

2 Installation............................................................ 16

2.1 Screw Holes.................................................................... 16

2.2 Pre-installation Precautions .......................................... 16
2.3 CPU Installation.............................................................. 17
2.4 Installation of Heatsink and CPU fan.............................. 19
2.5 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)......................... 20
2.6 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)..................... 22
2.7 CrossFireXTM and Quad CrossFireXTM Operation Guide. 23
2.8 Dual Monitor and Surround Display Features................. 27
2.9 ASRock Smart Remote Installation Guide...................... 30
2.10 Jumpers Setup .......................................................... 31
2.11 Onboard Headers and Connectors ............................. 32
2.12 Serial ATA (SATA) / Serial ATA2 (SATA2) Hard Disks
Installation ................................................................. 37
2.13 Serial ATA3 (SATA3) Hard Disks Installation .............. 37
2.14 Hot Plug and Hot Swap Functions for SATA / SATA2
HDDs ............................................................................ 38
2.15 Hot Plug and Hot Swap Functions for SATA3 HDDs ..... 38
2.16 SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDD Hot Plug Feature and
Operation Guide ......................................................... 39
2.17 Driver Installation Guide ............................................. 41
2.18 Installing Windows 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM
64-bit With RAID Functions ........................................ 41
2.19 Installing Windows 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit
/ XP / XP 64-bit Without RAID Functions .................... 42
2.19.1 Installing Windows XP / XP 64-bit Without RAID
Functions............................................................ 42
2.19.2 Installing Windows 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM /
VistaTM 64-bit Without RAID Functions................ 42

3 UEFI SETUP UTILITY.................................................. 43

3.1 Introduction..................................................................... 43

3.2
3.3
3.4

3.5
3.6
3.7
3.8

3.1.1 UEFI Menu Bar.....................................................

3.1.2 Navigation Keys....................................................
Main Screen....................................................................
OC Tweaker Screen.......................................................
Advanced Screen............................................................
3.4.1 CPU Configuration................................................
3.4.2 North Bridge Configuration...................................
3.4.3 South Bridge Configuration...................................
3.4.4 Storage Configuration...........................................
3.4.5 Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology............................
3.4.6 Intel(R) Smart Connect Technology......................
3.4.7 Super IO Configuration.........................................
3.4.8 ACPI Configuration...............................................
3.4.9 USB Configuration................................................
Hardware Health Event Monitoring Screen....................
Boot Screen....................................................................
Security Screen..............................................................
Exit Screen.....................................................................

43
44
44
45
50
51
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64

4 Software Support.................................................. 65
4.1 Install Operating System.................................................
4.2 Support CD Information..................................................
4.2.1 Running Support CD.............................................
4.2.2 Drivers Menu.........................................................
4.2.3 Utilities Menu........................................................
4.2.4 Contact Information...............................................

65
65
65
65
65
65

Chapter 1: Introduction
Thank you for purchasing ASRock Z77 Pro3 motherboard, a reliable motherboard
produced under ASRocks consistently stringent quality control. It delivers excellent
performance with robust design conforming to ASRocks commitment to quality and
endurance.
In this manual, chapter 1 and 2 contains introduction of the motherboard and stepby-step guide to the hardware installation. Chapter 3 and 4 contains the configuration guide to BIOS setup and information of the Support CD.

Because the motherboard specifications and the BIOS software might be

updated, the content of this manual will be subject to change without notice. In case any modifications of this manual occur, the updated version
will be available on ASRock website without further notice. You may find
the latest VGA cards and CPU support lists on ASRock website as well.
ASRock website http://www.asrock.com
If you require technical support related to this motherboard, please visit
our website for specific information about the model you are using.
www.asrock.com/support/index.asp

1.1 Package Contents

ASRock Z77 Pro3 Motherboard
(ATX Form Factor: 12.0-in x 7.6-in, 30.5 cm x 19.3 cm)
ASRock Z77 Pro3 Quick Installation Guide
ASRock Z77 Pro3 Support CD
2 x Serial ATA (SATA) Data Cables (Optional)
1 x I/O Panel Shield
ASRock Reminds You...
To get better performance in Windows 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64bit, it is recommended to set the BIOS option in Storage Configuration to
AHCI mode. For the BIOS setup, please refer to the User Manual in our
support CD for details.

1.2 Specifications
Platform

CPU








Chipset
Memory





Expansion Slot







Graphics

- ATX Form Factor: 12.0-in x 7.6-in, 30.5 cm x 19.3 cm

- All Solid Capacitor design
- Supports 3rd and 2nd Generation Intel CoreTM i7 / i5 / i3 in
LGA1155 Package
- Digi Power Design
- 4 + 1 Power Phase Design
- Supports Intel Turbo Boost 2.0 Technology
- Supports Intel K-Series unlocked CPU
- Supports Hyper-Threading Technology (see CAUTION 1)
- Supports Intel Rapid Start Technology and Smart Connect
Technology with Intel Ivy Bridge CPU
- Intel Z77
- Dual Channel DDR3 Memory Technology (see CAUTION 2)
- 4 x DDR3 DIMM slots
- Supports DDR3 2800+(OC)/2400(OC)/2133(OC)/1866(OC)/
1600/1333/1066 non-ECC, un-buffered memory
- Max. capacity of system memory: 32GB (see CAUTION 3)
- Supports Intel Extreme Memory Profile (XMP)1.3/1.2
- 1 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot (PCIE2: x16 mode)
(see CAUTION 4)
* PCIE 3.0 is only supported with Intel Ivy Bridge CPU. With
Intel Sandy Bridge CPU, it only supports PCIE 2.0.
- 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot (PCIE3: x4 mode)
- 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x 1 slot
- 2 x PCI slots
- Supports AMD Quad CrossFireXTM and CrossFireXTM
* Intel HD Graphics Built-in Visuals and the VGA outputs can
be supported only with processors which are GPU
integrated.
- Supports Intel HD Graphics Built-in Visuals: Intel Quick
Sync Video 2.0, Intel InTruTM 3D, Intel Clear Video HD
Technology, Intel InsiderTM, Intel HD Graphics 2500/4000
- Pixel Shader 5.0, DirectX 11 with Intel Ivy Bridge CPU.
Pixel Shader 4.1, DirectX 10.1 with Intel Sandy Bridge CPU
- Max. shared memory 1760MB (see CAUTION 5)
- Dual VGA Output: support HDMI and D-Sub ports by
independent display controllers
- Supports HDMI 1.4a Technology with max. resolution up to
1920x1200 @ 60Hz

- Supports D-Sub with max. resolution up to 2048x1536 @

75Hz

Audio



LAN





Rear Panel I/O









SATA3



USB3.0



Connector

- Supports Auto Lip Sync, Deep Color (12bpc), xvYCC and

HBR (High Bit Rate Audio) with HDMI (Compliant HDMI
monitor is required) (see CAUTION 6)
- Supports HDCP function with HDMI port
- Supports Full HD 1080p Blu-ray (BD) / HD-DVD playback
with HDMI port
- 7.1 CH HD Audio with Content Protection
(Realtek ALC892 Audio Codec)
- Premium Blu-ray audio support
- Supports THX TruStudioTM
- PCIE x1 Gigabit LAN 10/100/1000 Mb/s
- Realtek RTL8111E
- Supports Wake-On-LAN
- Supports LAN Cable Detection
- Supports Energy Efficient Ethernet 802.3az
- Supports PXE
I/O Panel
- 1 x PS/2 Keyboard Port
- 1 x D-Sub Port
- 1 x HDMI Port
- 4 x Ready-to-Use USB 2.0 Ports
- 2 x Ready-to-Use USB 3.0 Ports
- 1 x RJ-45 LAN Port with LED (ACT/LINK LED and SPEED
LED)
- HD Audio Jack: Side Speaker/Rear Speaker/Central/Bass/
Line in/Front Speaker/Microphone (see CAUTION 7)
- 2 x SATA3 6.0 Gb/s connectors, support RAID (RAID 0,
RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10, Intel Rapid Storage and Intel
Smart Response Technology), NCQ, AHCI and Hot Plug
functions
- 2 x Rear USB 3.0 ports, support USB 1.0/2.0/3.0 up to
5Gb/s
- 1 x Front USB 3.0 header (supports 2 USB 3.0 ports),
supports USB 1.0/2.0/3.0 up to 5Gb/s
- 4 x SATA2 3.0 Gb/s connectors, support RAID (RAID 0,
RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10, Intel Rapid Storage and Intel
Smart Response Technology), NCQ, AHCI and Hot Plug
functions
- 2 x SATA3 6.0Gb/s connectors

- 1 x IR header
- 1 x CIR header

BIOS Feature






Support CD


Unique Feature

- 1 x COM port header

- 1 x HDMI_SPDIF header
- 1 x Power LED header
- CPU/Chassis/Power FAN connector
- 24 pin ATX power connector
- 8 pin 12V power connector
- Front panel audio connector
- 3 x USB 2.0 headers (support 6 USB 2.0 ports)
- 1 x USB 3.0 header (supports 2 USB 3.0 ports)
- 64Mb AMI UEFI Legal BIOS with GUI support
- Supports Plug and Play
- ACPI 1.1 Compliance Wake Up Events
- Supports jumperfree
- SMBIOS 2.3.1 Support
- CPU Core, IGPU, DRAM, 1.8V PLL, VTT, VCCSA Voltage
Multi-adjustment
- Drivers, Utilities, AntiVirus Software (Trial Version),
CyberLink MediaEspresso 6.5 Trial, ASRock MAGIX
Multimedia Suite - OEM
- ASRock Extreme Tuning Utility (AXTU) (see CAUTION 8)
- ASRock Instant Boot
- ASRock Instant Flash (see CAUTION 9)
- ASRock APP Charger (see CAUTION 10)
- ASRock SmartView (see CAUTION 11)
- ASRock XFast USB (see CAUTION 12)
- ASRock XFast LAN (see CAUTION 13)
- ASRock XFast RAM (see CAUTION 14)
- ASRock Crashless BIOS (see CAUTION 15)
- ASRock OMG (Online Management Guard)
(see CAUTION 16)
- Lucid Virtu Universal MVP (see CAUTION 17)
* Lucid Virtu Universal MVP can be supported only with
processors which are GPU integrated.
- ASRock On/Off Play Technology (see CAUTION 18)
- Hybrid Booster:
- CPU Frequency Stepless Control (see CAUTION 19)
- ASRock U-COP (see CAUTION 20)
- Boot Failure Guard (B.F.G.)
- Combo Cooler Option (C.C.O.) (see CAUTION 21)
- Good Night LED

Hardware
Monitor

- CPU Temperature Sensing

- Chassis Temperature Sensing

- CPU/Chassis/Power Fan Tachometer

- CPU Quiet Fan (Allows Chassis Fan Speed Auto-Adjust by
CPU Temperature)
- CPU/Chassis Fan Multi-Speed Control
- Voltage Monitoring: +12V, +5V, +3.3V, CPU Vcore
- Microsoft Windows 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit /
XP / XP 64-bit compliant (see CAUTION 22)
- FCC, CE, WHQL
- ErP/EuP Ready (ErP/EuP ready power supply is required)
(see CAUTION 23)

OS

Certifications

* For detailed product information, please visit our website: http://www.asrock.com

WARNING
Please realize that there is a certain risk involved with overclocking, including
adjusting the setting in the BIOS, applying Untied Overclocking Technology, or using
third-party overclocking tools. Overclocking may affect your systems stability, or
even cause damage to the components and devices of your system. It should be
done at your own risk and expense. We are not responsible for possible damage
caused by overclocking.

CAUTION!
1. About the settings of Hyper Threading Technology, please check page
51.
2. This motherboard supports Dual Channel Memory Technology. Before
you implement Dual Channel Memory Technology, make sure to read the
installation guide of memory modules on page 20 for proper installation.
3. Due to the operating system limitation, the actual memory size may be
less than 4GB for the reservation for system usage under Windows 7 /
VistaTM / XP. For Windows OS with 64-bit CPU, there is no such limitation. You can use ASRock XFast RAM to utilize the memory that Windows cannot use.
4. Only PCIE2 slot supports Gen 3 speed. To run the PCI Express in Gen
3 speed, please install an Ivy Bridge CPU. If you install a Sandy Bridge
CPU, the PCI Express will run only at PCI Express Gen 2 speed.
5. The maximum shared memory size is defined by the chipset vendor and
is subject to change. Please check Intel website for the latest information.

6. xvYCC and Deep Color are only supported under Windows 7 64-bit /
7. Deep Color mode will be enabled only if the display supports 12bpc
in EDID. HBR is supported under Windows 7 64-bit / 7 / VistaTM 64-bit /
VistaTM.
7. For microphone input, this motherboard supports both stereo and mono
modes. For audio output, this motherboard supports 2-channel, 4-channel, 6-channel, and 8-channel modes. Please check the table on page 14
for proper connection.
8. ASRock Extreme Tuning Utility (AXTU) is an all-in-one tool to ne-tune different system functions in a user-friendly interface, which includes Hardware Monitor, Fan Control, Overclocking, OC DNA and IES. In Hardware
Monitor, it shows the major readings of your system. In Fan Control, it
shows the fan speed and temperature for you to adjust. In Overclocking,
you are allowed to overclock CPU frequency for optimal system performance. In OC DNA, you can save your OC settings as a profile and
share it with your friends. Your friends then can load the OC profile to
their own system to get the same OC settings. In IES (Intelligent Energy
Saver), the voltage regulator can reduce the number of output phases to
improve efficiency when the CPU cores are idle without sacrificing computing performance. Please visit our website for the operation procedures
of ASRock Extreme Tuning Utility (AXTU).

ASRock website: http://www.asrock.com
9. ASRock Instant Flash is a BIOS flash utility embedded in Flash ROM.
This convenient BIOS update tool allows you to update system BIOS

without entering operating systems first like MS-DOS or Windows. With
this utility, you can press the <F6> key during the POST or the <F2>
key to enter into the BIOS setup menu to access ASRock Instant Flash.
Just launch this tool and save the new BIOS file to your USB flash drive,
floppy disk or hard drive, then you can update your BIOS only in a few
clicks without preparing an additional floppy diskette or other complicated
flash utility. Please be noted that the USB flash drive or hard drive must
use FAT32/16/12 file system.
10. If you desire a faster, less restricted way of charging your Apple devices,
such as iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch, ASRock has prepared a wonderful solution for you - ASRock APP Charger. Simply install the APP Charger

driver, it makes your iPhone charge much quickly from your computer
and up to 40% faster than before. ASRock APP Charger allows you to
quickly charge many Apple devices simultaneously and even supports
continuous charging when your PC enters into Standby mode (S1), Suspend to RAM (S3), hibernation mode (S4) or power off (S5). With APP
Charger driver installed, you can easily enjoy the marvelous charging
experience.

ASRock website: http://www.asrock.com/Feature/AppCharger/index.asp

10

11. ASRock SmartView, a new function for internet browsers, is the smart
start page for IE that combines your most visited web sites, your history,
your Facebook friends and your real-time newsfeed into an enhanced
view for a more personal Internet experience. ASRock motherboards are
exclusively equipped with the ASRock SmartView utility that helps you
keep in touch with friends on-the-go. To use ASRock SmartView feature,
please make sure your OS version is Windows 7 / 7 64 bit / VistaTM /
VistaTM 64 bit, and your browser version is IE8.

ASRock website: http://www.asrock.com/Feature/SmartView/index.asp
12. ASRock XFast USB can boost USB storage device performance. The
performance may depend on the properties of the device.
13. ASRock XFast LAN provides a faster internet access, which includes
the benefits listed below. LAN Application Prioritization: You can configure your applications priority ideally and/or add new programs. Lower
Latency in Game: After setting online games priority higher, it can lower
the latency in games. Traffic Shaping: You can watch Youtube HD videos
and download simultaneously. Real-Time Analysis of Your Data: With
the status window, you can easily recognize which data streams you are
transferring currently.
14. ASRock XFast RAM is a new function that is included into ASRock Extreme Tuning Utility (AXTU). It fully utilizes the memory space that cannot
be used under Windows OS 32-bit CPU. ASRock XFast RAM shortens
the loading time of previously visited websites, making web surfing faster
than ever. And it also boosts the speed of Adobe Photoshop 5 times
faster. Another advantage of ASRock XFast RAM is that it reduces the
frequency of accessing your SSDs or HDDs in order to extend their lifespan.
15. ASRock Crashless BIOS allows users to update their BIOS without fear
of failing. If power loss occurs during the BIOS update process, ASRock
Crashless BIOS will automatically finish the BIOS update procedure after
regaining power. Please note that BIOS files need to be placed in the root
directory of your USB disk. Only USB2.0 ports support this feature.
16. Administrators are able to establish an internet curfew or restrict internet
access at specified times via OMG. You may choose from [Everyday], [Day
of the week] or [Weekdays and weekends], then schedule the starting
and ending hours of internet access granted to other users. In order to
prevent users from bypassing OMG, guest accounts without permission
to modify the system time are required.
17. VIRTU Universal MVP includes the base features of Virtu Universal
technology, which virtualizes integrated GPU and discrete GPU for best
of breed functionality. It also features Virtual Vsync for no-compromise
visual quality. With the added benefits of HyperFormance technology,
VIRTU Universal MVP improves game performance by intelligently reducing redundant rendering tasks in the flow between the CPU, GPU and the
display.

11

18. ASRock On/Off Play Technology allows users to enjoy the great audio
experience from portable audio devices, such as MP3 players or mobile

19.


20.

21.

22.

23.

phones to your PC, even when the PC is turned off (or in ACPI S5 mode)!
This motherboard also provides a free 3.5mm audio cable (optional) that
ensures users the most convenient computing environment.
Although this motherboard offers stepless control, it is not recommended
to perform over-clocking. Frequencies other than the recommended CPU
bus frequencies may cause instability of the system or damage the CPU.
While CPU overheat is detected, the system will automatically shutdown.
Before you resume the system, please check if the CPU fan on the motherboard functions properly and unplug the power cord, then plug it back
again. To improve heat dissipation, remember to spray thermal grease
between the CPU and the heatsink when you install the PC system.
Combo Cooler Option (C.C.O.) provides the flexible option to adopt three
different CPU cooler types, Socket LGA 775, LGA 1155 and LGA 1156.
Please be noticed that not all the 775 and 1156 CPU Fan can be used.
ASRock XFast RAM is not supported by Microsoft Windows XP / XP
64-bit. Intel Smart Connect Technology and Intel USB 3.0 ports are not
supported by Microsoft Windows VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit / XP / XP 64bit.
EuP stands for Energy Using Product, was a provision regulated by the
European Union to define the power consumption for the completed
system. According to EuP, the total AC power of the completed system
should be under 1.00W in off mode condition. To meet EuP standards,
an EuP ready motherboard and an EuP ready power supply are required.
According to Intels suggestion, the EuP ready power supply must meet
the standard of 5v, and the standby power efficiency should be higher
than 50% under 100 mA current consumption. For EuP ready power supply selection, we recommend you to check with the power supply manufacturer for more details.

12

1.3 Motherboard Layout

3

19.3cm (7.6 in)

USB 2.0
T: USB0
B: USB1

PS2
Keyboard

CPU_FAN1 CPU_FAN2

ATX12V1

PWR_FAN1

VGA1

CHA_FAN1

ATXPWR1

30.5cm (12.0 in)

DDR3_B2 (64 bit, 240-pin module)

DDR3_B1 (64 bit, 240-pin module)

Front USB 3.0

9
1

Center:
FRONT

Top:
LINE IN

Bottom:
MIC IN

34

PCIE1

SATA3_1

10

Z77 Pro3

ErP/EuP Ready

USB3_0_1

Top:
SIDE SPK

Center:
REAR SPK

Bottom:
CTR BASS

DDR3 2800+

USB 2.0
Top:
T: USB2 RJ-45
B: USB3

DDR3_A2 (64 bit, 240-pin module)

HDMI1
USB 3.0
T: USB2
B: USB3

DDR3_A1 (64 bit, 240-pin module)

35

LAN
PHY

11
SATA3_0

PCIE2
PCI Express 3.0
CMOS
Battery

33

12

X Fast USB
X Fast RAM

X Fast LAN

Super
I/O

Intel
Z77

32

64Mb
BIOS

13

PCIE3
RoHS
SATA2_2

14

PCI1

AUDIO
CODEC

15
SATA2_3

31

SATA2_4

PCI2
1

1
2
3
4
5

6

7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18

29

28

27

USB4_5

26

16
17

PANEL1

CHA_FAN2

PLED PWRBTN

SATA2_5
1

25

1
HDLED RESET

CIR1

30

USB6_7

IR1

CLRCMOS1

HDMI_SPDIF1

USB8_9

COM1

HD_AUDIO1

PLED1

24

23

CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN1)

CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN2)
1155-Pin CPU Socket
ATX 12V Power Connector (ATX12V1)
2 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM Slots
(DDR3_A1, DDR3_B1, Black)
2 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM Slots
(DDR3_A2, DDR3_B2, Black)
Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN1)
ATX Power Connector (ATXPWR1)
USB 3.0 Header (USB3_0_1, Black)
SATA3 Connectors (SATA3_1, Gray)
SATA3 Connectors (SATA3_0, Gray)
Intel Z77 Chipset
SPI Flash Memory (64Mb)
SATA2 Connectors (SATA2_2, Black)
SATA2 Connectors (SATA2_3, Black)
SATA2 Connectors (SATA2_4, Black)
SATA2 Connectors (SATA2_5, Black)
Chassis Speaker Header (SPEAKER1, Black)

13

22

19
20
21
22
23
24
25

26
27
28
29

30

31
32
33
34
35

21

20

SPEAKER1

19

18

Power LED Header (PLED1)

System Panel Header (PANEL1, Black)
Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN2)
USB 2.0 Header (USB4_5, Black)
USB 2.0 Header (USB6_7, Black)
USB 2.0 Header (USB8_9, Black)
Consumer Infrared Module Header
(CIR1, Gray)
Infrared Module Header (IR1)
Clear CMOS Jumper (CLRCMOS1)
COM Port Header (COM1)
HDMI_SPDIF Header
(HDMI_SPDIF1, Black)
Front Panel Audio Header
(HD_AUDIO1, Black)
PCI Slots (PCI1-2, Black)
PCI Express 2.0 x16 Slot (PCIE3, Black)
PCI Express 3.0 x16 Slot (PCIE2, Black)
PCI Express 2.0 x1 Slot (PCIE1, Black)
Power Fan Connector (PWR_FAN1)

1.4 I/O Panel

2

13

1
* 2
3
4
5
6
** 7

11

12

10

USB 2.0 Ports (USB01)

LAN RJ-45 Port
Side Speaker (Gray)
Rear Speaker (Black)
Central / Bass (Orange)
Line In (Light Blue)
Front Speaker (Lime)

8
9
10
11
12
13

9
Microphone (Pink)
USB 2.0 Ports (USB23)
USB 3.0 Ports (USB3_23)
HDMI Port (HDMI1)
D-Sub Port (VGA1)
PS/2 Keyboard Port (Purple)

* There are two LED next to the LAN port. Please refer to the table below for the LAN port LED
indications.

LAN Port LED Indications

Activity/Link LED
Status
Description

Off
No Link
Blinking Data Activity
On
Link

Status

Off
Orange
Green

SPEED LED
Description

ACT/LINK
LED

10Mbps connection
100Mbps connection
1Gbps connection

SPEED
LED

LAN Port

** If you use 2-channel speaker, please connect the speakers plug into Front Speaker Jack.
See the table below for connection details in accordance with the type of speaker you use.

TABLE for Audio Output Connection

Audio Output Channels Front Speaker Rear Speaker

(No. 7)
(No. 4)
2
V
--
4
V
V
6
V
V
8
V
V

14

Central / Bass
(No. 5)
--
--
V
V

Line in
(No. 6)
---V

To enable Multi-Streaming function, you need to connect a front panel audio cable to the front
panel audio header. After restarting your computer, you will find Mixer tool on your system.
Please select Mixer ToolBox
, click Enable playback multi-streaming, and click
ok. Choose 2CH, 4CH, 6CH, or 8CH and then you are allowed to select Realtek HDA
Primary output to use Rear Speaker, Central/Bass, and Front Speaker, or select Realtek
HDA Audio 2nd output to use front panel audio.

15

Chapter 2: Installation
This is an ATX form factor (12.0" x 7.6", 30.5 x 19.3 cm) motherboard. Before you
install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the
motherboard fits into it.

Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the

motherboard. Failure to do so may cause physical injuries to you and

damages to motherboard components.

2.1 Screw Holes

Place screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the
chassis.

Do not over-tighten the screws! Doing so may damage the motherboard.

2.2 Pre-installation Precautions

Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components
or change any motherboard settings.
1.
2.

3.
4.
5.

Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any
components.
To avoid damaging the motherboards components due to static
electricity, NEVER place your motherboard directly on the carpet
or the like. Also remember to use a grounded wrist strap or touch a
safety grounded object before you handle the components.
Hold components by the edges and do not touch the ICs.
Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the bag that comes with the component.
When placing screws into the screw holes to secure the motherboard to the chassis, please do not over-tighten the screws! Doing
so may damage the motherboard.
Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the power is
switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do
so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, and/or
components.

16

2.3 CPU Installation

In order to provide the LGA 1155 CPU sockets more protection and make the installation process easier, ASRock has added
a new protection cover on top of the load
plate to replace the former PnP caps that
were under the load plate. For the installation of Intel 1155-Pin CPUs with the new
protection cover, please follow the steps
below.

Load
Plate
Load
Lever
Cover

Socket
Body

Contact
Array

1155-Pin Socket Overview

Before you insert the 1155-Pin CPU into the socket, please check if the
CPU surface is unclean or if there are any bent pins in the socket. Do
not force to insert the CPU into the socket if above situation is found.
Otherwise, the CPU will be seriously damaged.

Step 1.

Open the socket:

Step 1-1. Disengage the lever by pressing it
down and sliding it out of the hook.
You do not have to remove the protection cover.

Step 1-2. Keep the lever positioned at about

135 degrees in order to flip up the
load plate.

Step 2.

Step 2-2. Orient the CPU with the IHS (Integrated Heat Sink) up. Locate Pin1
and the two orientation key notches.

17

black line

Insert the 1155-Pin CPU:

Step 2-1. Hold the CPU by the edge which is
marked with a black line.

orientation key notch

alignment key

Pin1

Pin1
alignment key
1155-Pin Socket

orientation key notch

1155-Pin CPU

For proper installation, please ensure to match the two orientation

key notches of the CPU with the two alignment keys of the socket.

Step 2-3. Carefully place the CPU into the

socket.

Step 2-4. Verify that the CPU is within the socket and properly mated to the orient
keys.

Step 3.

Close the socket:

Step 3-1. Flip the load plate onto the IHS.
Step 3-2. Press down the load lever, and secure it with the load plate tab under
the retention tab. The protection
cover will automatically come off by
itself.
Please save and replace the cover if the processor is removed. The
cover must be placed if you wish to return the motherboard for after
service.

18

2.4 Installation of CPU Fan and Heatsink

This motherboard is equipped with 1155-Pin socket that supports Intel 1155-Pin
CPUs. Please adopt the type of heatsink and cooling fan compliant with Intel 1155Pin CPU to dissipate heat. Before you install the heatsink, you need to spray thermal interface material between the CPU and the heatsink to improve heat dissipation. Ensure that the CPU and the heatsink are securely fastened and in good contact with each other. Then connect the CPU fan to the CPU_FAN connector (CPU_
FAN1, see page 13, No. 1 or CPU_FAN2, see page 13. No.2).
For proper installation, please kindly refer to the instruction manuals of your
CPU fan and heatsink.
Below is an example to illustrate the installation of the heatsink for 1155-Pin CPUs.
Step 1. Apply thermal interface material onto the center of the IHS on the sockets surface.
Apply Thermal
Interface Material

Step 2. Place the heatsink onto the socket. Ensure

that the fan cables are oriented on side closest
to the CPU fan connector on the motherboard
(CPU_FAN1, see page 13, No. 1 or CPU_
FAN2, see page 13. No.2).
Step 3. Align fasteners with the motherboard throughholes.
Step 4. Rotate the fastener clockwise, then press
down on fastener caps with thumb to install
and lock. Repeat with remaining fasteners.

Fan cables on side

closest to MB header

Fastener slots
pointing straight out

Press Down
(4 Places)

If you press down the fasteners without rotating them clockwise, the
heatsink cannot be secured on the motherboard.

Step 5. Connect fan header with the CPU fan connector on the motherboard.
Step 6. Secure redundant cable with tie-wrap to ensure the cable does not

interfere with fan operation or contact other components.
Please be noticed that this motherboard supports Combo Cooler
Option (C.C.O.), which provides flexible options to adopt three different CPU cooler types, Socket LGA 775, LGA 1155 and LGA 1156.
The white throughholes are for Socket LGA
1155/1156 CPU fan.

19

2.5 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)

This motherboard provides four 240-pin DDR3 (Double Data Rate 3) DIMM
slots, and supports Dual Channel Memory Technology. For dual channel configuration, you always need to install identical (the same brand, speed, size and
chip-type) DDR3 DIMM pair in the slots: You have to install identical DDR3
DIMMs in Dual Channel A (DDR3_A1 and DDR3_B1; Black slots; see p.13
No. 5) or identical DDR3 DIMMs in Dual Channel B (DDR3_A2 and DDR3_
B2; Black slots; see p.13 No. 6), so that Dual Channel Memory Technology can
be activated. This motherboard also allows you to install four DDR3 DIMMs
for dual channel configuration, please install identical DDR3 DIMMs in all four
slots. You may refer to the Dual Channel Memory Configuration Table below.
Dual Channel Memory Configuration


(1)
(2)
(3)*

DDR3_A1
(Black Slot)
Populated
-
Populated

DDR3_A2
(Black Slot)

-
Populated
Populated

DDR3_B1
DDR3_B2
(Black Slot) (Black Slot)
Populated
Populated
Populated
Populated

* For configuration (3), please install identical DDR3 DIMMs in all four
slots.
1. If you want to install two memory modules, for optimal compatibility
and reliability, it is recommended to install them in the slots: DDR3_
A1 and DDR3_B1, or DDR3_A2 and DDR3_B2.
2. If only one memory module or three memory modules are installed
in the DDR3 DIMM slots on this motherboard, it is unable to activate
Dual Channel Memory Technology.
3. If a pair of memory modules is NOT installed in the same Dual
Channel, for example, installing a pair of memory modules in
DDR3_A1 and DDR3_A2, it is unable to activate Dual Channel
Memory Technology.
4. It is not allowed to install a DDR or DDR2 memory module into
DDR3 slot; otherwise, this motherboard and DIMM may be damaged.
5. Some DDR3 1GB double-sided DIMMs with 16 chips may not work
on this motherboard. It is not recommended to install them on this
motherboard.
6. For optimal compatibility and stability while overclocking memory
frequency, it is recommended to install one memory module in
DDR3_B2 slot or two memory modules in DDR3_A2 and DDR3_B2
slots.

20

Installing a DIMM
Please make sure to disconnect power supply before adding or
removing DIMMs or the system components.

Step 1. Unlock a DIMM slot by pressing the retaining clips outward.

Step 2. Align a DIMM on the slot such that the notch on the DIMM matches the

break on the slot.

notch
break

notch

break

The DIMM only fits in one correct orientation. It will cause permanent
damage to the motherboard and the DIMM if you force the DIMM into
the slot at incorrect orientation.

Step 3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the slot until the retaining clips at both ends

fully snap back in place and the DIMM is properly seated.

21

2.6 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)

There are 2 PCI slots and 3 PCI Express slots on this motherboard.
PCI slots: PCI slots are used to install expansion cards that have the 32-bit PCI

interface.
PCIE slots: PCIE1 (PCIE 2.0 x1 slot) is used for a PCI Express x1 lane width card,
such as a Gigabit LAN card, SATA2 card or ASRock Game Blaster, etc.

PCIE2 (PCIE 3.0 x16 slot) is used for PCI Express x16 lane width
graphics cards, or to install PCI Express graphics cards to support
CrossFireXTM.

PCIE3 (PCIE 2.0 x16 slot) is used for PCI Express x4 lane width graphics cards, or to install PCI Express graphics cards to support CrossFireXTM.

1. In single VGA card mode, it is recommended to install a PCI Express

x16 graphics card on PCIE2 slot.
2. In CrossFireXTM mode, please install the PCI Express x16 graphics
cards on PCIE2 and PCIE3 slots. Therefore, PCIE2 will work at x16
bandwidth, while PCIE3 works at x4 bandwidth.
3. Please connect a chassis fan to the motherboards chassis fan
connector (CHA_FAN1 or CHA_FAN2) when using multiple
graphics cards for better thermal environment.
4. Only PCIE2 slot supports Gen 3 speed. To run the PCI Express in
Gen 3 speed, please install an Ivy Bridge CPU. If you install a Sandy
Bridge CPU, the PCI Express will run only at PCI Express Gen 2
speed.

Installing an expansion card

Step 1.



Step 2.

Step 3.

Step 4.

Step 5.
Step 6.

Before installing an expansion card, please make sure that the power
supply is switched off or the power cord is unplugged. Please read the
documentation of the expansion card and make necessary hardware
settings for the card before you start the installation.
Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed
in a chassis).
Remove the bracket facing the slot that you intend to use. Keep the
screws for later use.
Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card is
completely seated on the slot.
Fasten the card to the chassis with screws.
Replace the system cover.

22

2.7 CrossFireXTM and Quad CrossFireXTM Operation Guide

This motherboard supports CrossFireXTM and Quad CrossFireXTM feature.
CrossFireXTM technology offers the most advantageous means available of
combining multiple high performance Graphics Processing Units (GPU) in a single
PC. Combining a range of different operating modes with intelligent software design
and an innovative interconnect mechanism, CrossFireXTM enables the highest
possible level of performance and image quality in any 3D application. Currently
CrossFireXTM feature is supported with Windows XP with Service Pack 2 / VistaTM
/ 7 OS. Quad CrossFireXTM feature is supported with Windows VistaTM / 7 OS only.
Please check AMD website for ATITM CrossFireXTM driver updates.

1. If a customer incorrectly configures their system they will not see the
performance benefits of CrossFireXTM. All three CrossFireXTM components, a
CrossFireXTM Ready graphics card, a CrossFireXTM Ready motherboard and a
CrossFireXTM Edition co-processor graphics card, must be installed correctly to
benefit from the CrossFireXTM multi-GPU platform.
2. If you pair a 12-pipe CrossFireXTM Edition card with a 16-pipe card, both cards
will operate as 12-pipe cards while in CrossFireXTM mode.

2.7.1 Installing Two CrossFireXTM-Ready Graphics Cards

Different CrossFireXTM cards may require different methods to enable CrossFireXTM

feature. For other CrossFireXTM cards that AMD has released or will release in the
future, please refer to AMD graphics card manuals for detailed installation guide.

Step 1. Insert one Radeon graphics card into PCIE2 slot and the other Radeon
graphics card to PCIE3 slot. Make sure that the cards are properly seated
on the slots.

23

Step 2. Connect two Radeon graphics cards by installing CrossFire Bridge on

CrossFire Bridge Interconnects on the top of Radeon graphics cards.
(CrossFire Bridge is provided with the graphics card you purchase, not
bundled with this motherboard. Please refer to your graphics card vendor
for details.)

CrossFire Bridge

or

Step 3. Connect the DVI monitor cable to the DVI connector on the Radeon

graphics card on PCIE2 slot. (You may use the DVI to D-Sub adapter to
convert the DVI connector to D-Sub interface, and then connect the D-Sub
monitor cable to the DVI to D-Sub adapter.)

24

2.7.2 Driver Installation and Setup

Step 1. Power on your computer and boot into OS.
Step 2. Remove the ATITM driver if you have any VGA driver installed in your

system.
TheCatalyst Uninstaller is an optional download. We recommend using this
utility to uninstall any previously installed Catalyst drivers prior to installation.
Please check AMD website for ATITM driver updates.

Step 3. Install the required drivers to your system.

For Windows XP OS:

A. ATITM recommends Windows XP Service Pack 2 or higher to be
installed (If you have Windows XP Service Pack 2 or higher installed
in your system, there is no need to download it again):


http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/sp2/default.mspx

B. You must have Microsoft .NET Framework installed prior to

downloading and installing the CATALYST Control Center. Please

check Microsoft website for details.

For Windows 7 / VistaTM OS:

Install the CATALYST Control Center. Please check AMD website for details.
Step 4. Restart your computer.
Step 5. Install the VGA card drivers to your system, and restart your computer.

Then you will find ATI Catalyst Control Center on your Windows taskbar.

ATI Catalyst Control Center

Step 6. Double-click ATI Catalyst Control Center. Click View, select CrossFireXTM, and then check the item Enable CrossFireXTM. Select 2 GPUs
and click Apply.

25

Although you have selected the option Enable CrossFireTM, the CrossFireXTM
function may not work actually. Your computer will automatically reboot. After

restarting your computer, please confirm whether the option Enable CrossFireTM in
AMD Catalyst Control Center is selected or not; if not, please select it again, and
then you are able to enjoy the benefits of CrossFireXTM.

Step 7. You can freely enjoy the benefits of CrossFireXTM or Quad CrossFireXTM.
* CrossFireXTM appearing here is a registered trademark of AMD Technologies Inc., and is used
only for identification or explanation and to the owners benefit, without intent to infringe.
* For further information of AMD CrossFireXTM technology, please check AMDs website for
updates and details.

26

2.8 Dual Monitor and Surround Display Features

Dual Monitor Feature
This motherboard supports dual monitor feature. With the internal VGA output support (D-Sub and HDMI), you can easily enjoy the benefits of dual monitor feature
without installing any add-on VGA cards to this motherboard. This motherboard also
provides independent display controllers for D-Sub and HDMI to support dual VGA
output so that D-sub and HDMI can drive same or different display contents.
To enable dual monitor feature, please follow the steps below:
1. Connect a D-Sub monitor cable to the D-Sub port on the I/O panel and connect a
HDMI monitor cable to the HDMI port on the I/O panel.

D-Sub port

HDMI port

2. If you have already installed the onboard VGA driver from our support CD to your
system, you can freely enjoy the benefits of dual monitor function after your
system boots. If you havent installed the onboard VGA driver yet, please install
the onboard VGA driver from our support CD to your system and restart your
computer.

27

Surround Display Feature

This motherboard supports surround display upgrade. With the internal VGA output
support (D-Sub and HDMI) and external add-on PCI Express VGA cards, you can
easily enjoy the benefits of surround display feature.
Please refer to the following steps to set up a surround display environment:
1. Install the PCI Express VGA cards on PCIE2 and PCIE3 slots. Please refer to
page 22 for proper expansion card installation procedures.
2. Connect a D-Sub monitor cable to the D-Sub port on the I/O panel and connect a
HDMI monitor cable to the HDMI port on the I/O panel. Then connect other
monitor cables to the corresponding connectors of the add-on PCI Express VGA
cards on PCIE2 and PCIE3 slots.
3. Boot your system. Press <F2> or <Del> to enter UEFI setup. Enter Share
Memory option to adjust the memory capability to [32MB], [64MB], [128MB],
[256MB] or [512MB] to enable the function of D-sub. Please make sure that the
value you select is less than the total capability of the system memory. If you do
not adjust the UEFI setup, the default value of Share Memory, [Auto], will
disable D-Sub function when an add-on VGA card is inserted to this motherboard.
4. Install the onboard VGA driver and the add-on PCI Express VGA card driver to
your system. If you have installed the drivers already, there is no need to install
them again.
5. Set up a multi-monitor display.

For Windows XP / XP 64-bit OS:

Right click on desktop, choose Properties, and select the Settings tab
so that you can adjust the parameters of the multi-monitors according to
the steps below.
A. Click the Identify button to display a large number on each monitor.
B. Right-click the display icon in the Display Properties dialog that you
wish to be your primary monitor, and then select Primary. When
you use multiple monitors with your card, one monitor will always be
Primary, and all additional monitors will be designated as Secondary.
C. Select the display icon identified by the number 2.
D. Click Extend my Windows desktop onto this monitor.
E. Right-click the display icon and select Attached, if necessary.
F. Set the appropriate Screen Resolution and Color Quality for the
second monitor. Click Apply or OK to apply these new values.
G. Repeat steps C through E for the display icon identified by the
numbers three to six.

28

For Windows 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS:

Right click the desktop, choose Personalize, and select the Display

Settings tab so that you can adjust the parameters of the multi-monitors
according to the steps below.
A. Click the number 2 icon.
B. Click the items This is my main monitor and Extend the desktop onto
this monitor.
C. Click OK to save your change.
D. Repeat steps A through C for the display icons identified by the number
three to six.

6. Use Surround Display. Click and drag the display icons to positions representing
the physical setup of your monitors that you would like to use. The placement of
display icons determines how you move items from one monitor to another.

HDCP Function
HDCP function is supported on this motherboard. To use HDCP
function with this motherboard, you need to adopt a monitor
that supports HDCP function as well. Therefore, you can enjoy
the superior display quality with high-definition HDCP
encryption contents. Please refer to the instructions below for
more details about HDCP function.

What is HDCP?
HDCP stands for High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection, a
specification developed by Intel for protecting digital
entertainment content that uses the DVI interface. HDCP is a
copy protection scheme to eliminate the possibility of
intercepting digital data midstream between the video source,
or transmitter - such as a computer, DVD player or set-top box and the digital display, or receiver - such as a monitor, television
or projector. In other words, HDCP specification is designed to
protect the integrity of content as it is being transmitted.

Products compatible with the HDCP scheme such as DVD

players, satellite and cable HDTV set-top-boxes, as well as few
entertainment PCs requires a secure connection to a compliant

display.Due to the increase in manufacturers employing HDCP

in their equipment, it is highly recommended that the HDTV or
LCD monitor you purchase is compatible.

29

2.9 ASRock Smart Remote Installation Guide

ASRock Smart Remote is only used for ASRock motherboard with CIR header.
Please refer to below procedures for the quick installation and usage of ASRock
Smart Remote.
Step1.

Find the CIR header located next

to the USB 2.0 header on ASRock
motherboard.

Step2.

Connect the front USB cable to the

USB 2.0 header (as below, pin 1-5)
and the CIR header. Please make
sure the wire assignments and the
pin assignments are matched
correctly.

USB 2.0 header (9-pin, black)

CIR header (4-pin, gray)
USB_PWR
PP+
GND

2 3

DUMMY

4 5

GND
IRTX
IRRX
ATX+5VSB

Step3.

Install Multi-Angle CIR Receiver to

the front USB port. If Multi-Angle
CIR Receiver cannot successfully
receive the infrared signals from
MCE Remote Controller, please try
to install it to the other front USB
port.

3 CIR sensors in different angles

1.


2.




3.

Only one of the front USB port can support CIR function. When
the CIR function is enabled, the other port will remain USB
function.
Multi-Angle CIR Receiver is used for front USB only. Please do
not use the rear USB bracket to connect it on the rear panel.
Multi-Angle CIR Receiver can receive the multi-direction infrared
signals (top, down and front), which is compatible with most of
the chassis on the market.
The Multi-Angle CIR Receiver does not support Hot-Plug
function. Please install it before you boot the system.

* ASRock Smart Remote is only supported by some of ASRock motherboards. Please refer to
ASRock website for the motherboard support list: http://www.asrock.com

30

2.10 Jumpers Setup

The illustration shows how jumpers are
setup. When the jumper cap is placed on
pins, the jumper is Short. If no jumper cap
is placed on pins, the jumper is Open. The
illustration shows a 3-pin jumper whose
pin1 and pin2 are Short when jumper cap
is placed on these 2 pins.
Jumper
Clear CMOS Jumper

Setting

Description

(CLRCMOS1)
(see p.13, No. 27)

Default

Clear CMOS

Note: CLRCMOS1 allows you to clear the data in CMOS. To clear and reset the

system parameters to default setup, please turn off the computer and unplug
the power cord from the power supply. After waiting for 15 seconds, use a
jumper cap to short pin2 and pin3 on CLRCMOS1 for 5 seconds. However,
please do not clear the CMOS right after you update the BIOS. If you need
to clear the CMOS when you just finish updating the BIOS, you must boot
up the system first, and then shut it down before you do the clear-CMOS action. Please be noted that the password, date, time, user default profile, 1394
GUID and MAC address will be cleared only if the CMOS battery is removed.

31

2.11 Onboard Headers and Connectors

Onboard headers and connectors are NOT jumpers. Do NOT place
jumper caps over these headers and connectors. Placing jumper caps
over the headers and connectors will cause permanent damage of the
motherboard!

Serial ATA2 Connectors

(SATA2_2: see p.13, No. 14)
(SATA2_3: see p.13, No. 15)
(SATA2_4: see p.13, No. 16)
(SATA2_5: see p.13, No. 17)

Serial ATA3 Connectors
(SATA3_0: see p.13, No. 15)
(SATA3_1: see p.13, No. 16)

SATA2_2
SATA2_3
SATA2_4
SATA2_5

SATA3_1
SATA3_0

These four Serial ATA2 (SATA2)

connectors support SATA data
cables for internal storage
devices. The current SATA2
interface allows up to 3.0 Gb/s
data transfer rate.
These two Serial ATA3 (SATA3)
connectors support SATA data
cables for internal storage
devices. The current SATA3
interface allows up to 6.0 Gb/s
data transfer rate.

Serial ATA (SATA)

Data Cable
(Optional)

Either end of the SATA data

cable can be connected to the
SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 hard
disk or the SATA2 / SATA3
connector on this motherboard.

USB 2.0 Headers

(9-pin USB4_5)
(see p.13, No. 22)

Besides four default USB 2.0

ports on the I/O panel, there are
three USB 2.0 headers on this
motherboard. Each USB 2.0
header can support two USB 2.0
ports.

(9-pin USB6_7)
(see p.13, No. 23)

32

(9-pin USB8_9)
(see p.13, No. 24)

USB_PWR
P-9
P+9
GND
DUMMY
1
GND
P+8
P-8
USB_PWR

Vbus
Vbus

IntA_P1_SSRXIntA_P1_SSRX+

IntA_P0_SSRX-

GND

IntA_P0_SSRX+

IntA_P1_SSTX-

GND
IntA_P0_SSTX-

IntA_P1_SSTX+

IntA_P0_SSTX+

GND
IntA_P1_D-

GND
IntA_P0_D-

IntA_P1_D+

IntA_P0_D+

DUMMY

Besides two default USB 3.0

ports on the I/O panel, there is
one USB 3.0 header on this
motherboard. This USB 3.0
header can support two USB 3.0
ports.

USB 3.0 Header

(19-pin USB3_0_1)
(see p.13, No. 9)

Infrared Module Header

(5-pin IR1)
(see p.13, No. 26)

IRTX
+5VSB
DUMMY

This header supports an

optional wireless transmitting
and receiving infrared module.

GND
IRRX

Consumer Infrared Module Header

(4-pin CIR1)
(see p.13, No. 25)

This header can be used to

connect the remote controller
receiver.

Front Panel Audio Header

(9-pin HD_AUDIO1)
(see p.13, No. 30)

This is an interface for front

panel audio cable that allows
convenient connection and
control of audio devices.

GND
PRESENCE#
MIC_RET
OUT_RET

1
OUT2_L
J_SENSE
OUT2_R
MIC2_R
MIC2_L

1. High Definition Audio supports Jack Sensing, but the panel wire on the
chassis must support HDA to function correctly. Please follow the
instruction in our manual and chassis manual to install your system.
2. If you use AC97 audio panel, please install it to the front panel audio
header as below:
A. Connect Mic_IN (MIC) to MIC2_L.
B. Connect Audio_R (RIN) to OUT2_R and Audio_L (LIN) to OUT2_L.
C. Connect Ground (GND) to Ground (GND).
D. MIC_RET and OUT_RET are for HD audio panel only. You dont need
to connect them for AC97 audio panel.

33

E. To activate the front mic.

For Windows XP / XP 64-bit OS:
Select Mixer. Select Recorder. Then click FrontMic.
For Windows 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS:
Go to the FrontMic Tab in the Realtek Control panel. Adjust
Recording Volume.

System Panel Header

(9-pin PANEL1)
(see p.13, No. 20)

This header accommodates

several system front panel
functions.

Connect the power switch, reset switch and system status indicator on the
chassis to this header according to the pin assignments below. Note the
positive and negative pins before connecting the cables.

PWRBTN (Power Switch):

Connect to the power switch on the chassis front panel. You may configure
the way to turn off your system using the power switch.
RESET (Reset Switch):
Connect to the reset switch on the chassis front panel. Press the reset
switch to restart the computer if the computer freezes and fails to perform a
normal restart.

PLED (System Power LED):

Connect to the power status indicator on the chassis front panel. The LED
is on when the system is operating. The LED keeps blinking when the system is in S1/S3 sleep state. The LED is off when the system is in S4 sleep
state or powered off (S5).
HDLED (Hard Drive Activity LED):
Connect to the hard drive activity LED on the chassis front panel. The LED
is on when the hard drive is reading or writing data.
The front panel design may differ by chassis. A front panel module mainly
consists of power switch, reset switch, power LED, hard drive activity LED,
speaker and etc. When connecting your chassis front panel module to this
header, make sure the wire assignments and the pin assign-ments are
matched correctly.

Chassis Speaker Header

(4-pin SPEAKER 1)
(see p.13, No. 18)

1
SPEAKER
DUMMY
+5V DUMMY

34

Please connect the chassis

speaker to this header.

Power LED Header

(3-pin PLED1)
(see p.13, No. 19)

Please connect the chassis

power LED to this header to

1
PLEDPLED+
PLED+

indicate system power status.

The LED is on when the system
is operating. The LED keeps
blinking in S1/S3 state. The
LED is off in S4 state or S5
state (power off).

Chassis and Power Fan Connectors

(4-pin CHA_FAN1)
(see p.13, No. 7)

(3-pin CHA_FAN2)

Please connect the fan cables

to the fan connectors and match
the black wire to the ground pin.
CHA_FAN1 and CHA_FAN2
supports Fan Control.

(see p.13, No. 21)

(3-pin PWR_FAN1)
(see p.13, No. 35)

CPU Fan Connectors

(4-pin CPU_FAN1)
(see p.13, No. 1)

GND
+12V
PWR_FAN_SPEED

FAN_SPEED_CONTROL
CPU_FAN_SPEED
+12V
GND

1 2 3 4

Please connect the CPU fan

cable to the connector and
match the black wire to the
ground pin.

Though this motherboard provides 4-Pin CPU fan (Quiet Fan) support, the 3-Pin
CPU fan still can work successfully even without the fan speed control function.
If you plan to connect the 3-Pin CPU fan to the CPU fan connector on this
motherboard, please connect it to Pin 1-3.
Pin 1-3 Connected

3-Pin Fan Installation

(3-pin CPU_FAN2)
(see p.13, No. 2)

ATX Power Connector

(24-pin ATXPWR1)

GND
+12V
CPU_FAN_SPEED

12

24

13

Please connect an ATX power

supply to this connector.

(see p.13, No. 8)

35

Though this motherboard provides 24-pin ATX power connector,

it can still work if you adopt a traditional 20-pin ATX power supply.
To use the 20-pin ATX power supply, please plug your
power supply along with Pin 1 and Pin 13.

12

24

13

20-Pin ATX Power Supply Installation

ATX 12V Power Connector

(8-pin ATX12V1)
(see p.13, No. 4)

Please connect an ATX 12V

power supply to this connector.

Though this motherboard provides 8-pin ATX 12V power connector, it can still work
if you adopt a traditional 4-pin ATX 12V power supply. To use the 4-pin ATX power
supply, please plug your power supply along with Pin 1 and Pin 5.

4-Pin ATX 12V Power Supply Installation

Serial port Header

(9-pin COM1)

This COM1 header supports a

serial port module.

(see p.13, No. 28)

HDMI_SPDIF Header
(2-pin HDMI_SPDIF1)
(see p.13, No. 29)

HDMI_SPDIF header, providing

SPDIF audio output to HDMI
VGA card, allows the system to
connect HDMI Digital TV/
projector/LCD devices. Please
connect the HDMI_SPDIF
connector of HDMI VGA card to
this header.

1
GND
SPDIFOUT

36

2.12 Serial ATA (SATA) / Serial ATA2 (SATA2) Hard Disks Installation
This motherboard adopts Intel Z77 chipset that supports Serial ATA (SATA) / Serial
ATA2 (SATA2) hard disks and RAID (RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10, Intel Rapid
Storage and Intel Smart Response Technology) functions. You may install SATA /
SATA2 hard disks on this motherboard for internal storage devices. This section will
guide you to install the SATA / SATA2 hard disks.
STEP 1: Install the SATA / SATA2 hard disks into the drive bays of your chassis.
STEP 2: Connect the SATA power cable to the SATA / SATA2 hard disk.
STEP 3: Connect one end of the SATA data cable to the motherboards SATA2 connector.
STEP 4: Connect the other end of the SATA data cable to the SATA / SATA2 hard
disk.

2.13 Serial ATA3 (SATA3) Hard Disks Installation

This motherboard adopts Intel Z77 chipset that supports Serial ATA3 (SATA3) hard
disks and RAID (RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10, Intel Rapid Storage and Intel
Smart Response Technology) functions. You may install SATA3 hard disks on this
motherboard for internal storage devices. This section will guide you to install the
SATA3 hard disks.
STEP 1: Install the SATA3 hard disks into the drive bays of your chassis.
STEP 2: Connect the SATA power cable to the SATA3 hard disk.
STEP 3: Connect one end of the SATA data cable to the motherboards SATA3 connector.
STEP 4: Connect the other end of the SATA data cable to the SATA3 hard disk.

37

2.14 Hot Plug and Hot Swap Functions for SATA / SATA2 HDDs
This motherboard supports Hot Plug and Hot Swap functions for SATA / SATA2 in
RAID / AHCI mode. Intel Z77 chipset provides hardware support for Advanced Host
controller Interface (AHCI), a new programming interface for SATA host controllers
developed through a joint industry effort.
NOTE
What is Hot Plug Function?
If the SATA / SATA2 HDDs are NOT set for RAID configuration, it is called Hot
Plug for the action to insert and remove the SATA / SATA2 HDDs while the
system is still power-on and in working condition.
However, please note that it cannot perform Hot Plug if the OS has been
installed into the SATA / SATA2 HDD.

What is Hot Swap Function?

If SATA / SATA2 HDDs are built as RAID 1 or RAID 5 then it is called Hot
Swap for the action to insert and remove the SATA / SATA2 HDDs while the
system is still power-on and in working condition.

2.15 Hot Plug and Hot Swap Functions for SATA3 HDDs
This motherboard supports Hot Plug and Hot Swap functions for SATA3 in RAID
/ AHCI mode. Intel Z77 chipset provides hardware support for Advanced Host
controller Interface (AHCI), a new programming interface for SATA host controllers
developed through a joint industry effort.
NOTE
What is Hot Plug Function?
If the SATA3 HDDs are NOT set for RAID configuration, it is called Hot
Plug for the action to insert and remove the SATA3 HDDs while the system
is still power-on and in working condition.
However, please note that it cannot perform Hot Plug if the OS has been
installed into the SATA3 HDD.

What is Hot Swap Function?

If SATA3 HDDs are built as RAID 1 or RAID 5 then it is called Hot Swap
for the action to insert and remove the SATA3 HDDs while the system is still
power-on and in working condition.

38

2.16 SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDD Hot Plug Feature and Operation Guide
This motherboard supports Hot Plug feature for SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDD in
RAID / AHCI mode. Please read below operation guide of Hot Plug feature carefully.
Before you process the SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDD Hot Plug, please check below
cable accessories from the motherboard gift box pack.
A. 7-pin SATA data cable
B. SATA power cable with SATA 15-pin power connector interface
A. SATA data cable (Red)

SATA 7-pin
connector

B. SATA power cable

The SATA 15-pin power

connector (Black) connect
to SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDD

1x4-pin conventional
power connector (White)
connect to power supply

Caution
1. Without SATA 15-pin power connector interface, the SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 Hot
Plug cannot be processed.
2. Even some SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDDs provide both SATA 15-pin power

connector and IDE 1x4-pin conventional power connector interfaces, the IDE
1x4-pin conventional power connector interface is definitely not able to support
Hot Plug and will cause the HDD damage and data loss.

Points of attention, before you process the Hot Plug:

1. Below operation procedure is designed only for our motherboard, which

supports SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDD Hot Plug.
* The SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 Hot Plug feature might not be supported by the
chipset because of its limitation, the SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 Hot Plug support
information of our motherboard is indicated in the product spec on our

website: www.asrock.com
2. Make sure your SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDD can support Hot Plug function from
your dealer or HDD user manual. The SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDD, which cannot
support Hot Plug function, will be damaged under the Hot Plug operation.
3. Please make sure the SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 driver is installed into system

properly. The latest SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 driver is available on our support

website: www.asrock.com
4. Make sure to use the SATA power cable & data cable, which are from our

motherboard package.
5. Please follow below instructions step by step to reduce the risk of HDD crash
or data loss.

39

How to Hot Plug a SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDD:

Points of attention, before you process the Hot Plug:
Please do follow below instruction sequence to process the Hot Plug, improper
procedure will cause the SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDD damage and data loss.
Step 1 Please connect SATA power cable 1x4pin end (White) to the power supply
1x4-pin cable.

Step 2 Connect SATA data cable to the

motherboards SATA2 / SATA3
connector.

SATA power cable 1x4-pin

power connector (White)

Step 3 Connect SATA 15-pin power cable

connector (Black) end to SATA / SATA2
/ SATA3 HDD.

Step 4 Connect SATA data cable to

the SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDD.

How to Hot Unplug a SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDD:

Points of attention, before you process the Hot Unplug:
Please do follow below instruction sequence to process the Hot Unplug, improper
procedure will cause the SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDD damage and data loss.
Step 1 Unplug SATA data cable from SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDD side.

Step 2 Unplug SATA 15-pin power cable connector (Black) from SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDD side.

40

2.17 Driver Installation Guide

To install the drivers to your system, please insert the support CD to your optical
drive first. Then, the drivers compatible to your system can be auto-detected and
listed on the support CD driver page. Please follow the order from top to bottom to
install those required drivers. Therefore, the drivers you install can work properly.

2.18 Installing Windows 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit With

RAID Functions
If you want to install Windows 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS on your SATA
/ SATA2 / SATA3 HDDs with RAID functions, please follow the steps below.
RAID mode is not supported under Windows XP / XP 64-bit.
STEP 1: Set up UEFI.
A. Enter UEFI SETUP UTILITY
Advanced screen
Storage Configuration.
B. Set the option SATA Mode Selection to [RAID].
STEP 2: Use RAID Installation Guide to set RAID configuration.
Before you start to configure the RAID function, you need to check the installation
guide in the Support CD for proper configuration. Please refer to the document in
the Support CD, Guide to SATA Hard Disks Installation and RAID Configuration,
which is located in the folder at the following path:
.. \ RAID Installation Guide
STEP 3: Install Windows 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS on your

system.
After the installation of Windows 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS, if you want to
manage RAID functions, you are allowed to use both RAID Installation Guide and Intel
Rapid Storage Information for RAID configuration. Please refer to the document in the
Support CD, Guide to SATA Hard Disks Installation and RAID Configuration, which is located in the folder at the following path: .. \ RAID Installation Guide and the document in
the support CD, Guide to Intel Rapid Storage, which is located in the folder at the following path: .. \ Intel Rapid Storage Information

If you want to use Intel Rapid Storage in Windows environment, install

SATA2 driver from the Support CD again so that Intel Rapid Storage
will be installed to your system as well.

41

2.19 Installing Windows 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit / XP /

XP 64-bit Without RAID Functions
If you want to install Windows 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit / XP / XP 64-bit
OS on your SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDDs without RAID functions, please follow the
procedures below according to the OS you install.

2.19.1 Installing Windows XP / XP 64-bit Without RAID Functions

If you want to install Windows XP / XP 64-bit OS on your SATA / SATA2 / SATA3
HDDs without RAID functions, please follow the steps below.
AHCI mode is not supported under Windows XP / XP 64-bit.
Using SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDDs without NCQ function
STEP 1: Set Up UEFI.
A. Enter UEFI SETUP UTILITY
Advanced screen
Storage Configuration.
B. Set the option SATA Mode Selection to [IDE].
STEP 2: Install Windows XP / XP 64-bit OS on your system.

2.19.2 Installing Windows 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit

Without RAID Functions
If you want to install Windows 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS on your SATA
/ SATA2 / SATA3 HDDs without RAID functions, please follow the steps below.
Using SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDDs with NCQ function
STEP 1: Set Up UEFI.
A. Enter UEFI SETUP UTILITY
Advanced screen
Storage Configuration.
B. Set the option SATA Mode Selection to [AHCI].
STEP 2: Install Windows 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS on your

system.
Using SATA / SATA2 / SATA3 HDDs without NCQ function
STEP 1: Set Up UEFI.
A. Enter UEFI SETUP UTILITY
Advanced screen
Storage Configuration.
B. Set the option SATA Mode Selection to [IDE].
STEP 2: Install Windows 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS on your

system.

42

Chapter 3: UEFI SETUP UTILITY

3.1 Introduction
This section explains how to use the UEFI SETUP UTILITY to configure your
system. The UEFI chip on the motherboard stores the UEFI SETUP UTILITY. You
may run the UEFI SETUP UTILITY when you start up the computer. Please press
<F2> or <Del> during the Power-On-Self-Test (POST) to enter the UEFI SETUP
UTILITY, otherwise, POST will continue with its test routines.
If you wish to enter the UEFI SETUP UTILITY after POST, restart the system by
pressing <Ctl> + <Alt> + <Delete>, or by pressing the reset button on the system
chassis. You may also restart by turning the system off and then back on.
Because the UEFI software is constantly being updated, the
following UEFI setup screens and descriptions are for reference
purpose only, and they may not exactly match what you see on
your screen.

3.1.1 UEFI Menu Bar

The top of the screen has a menu bar with the following selections:
Main
To set up the system time/date information
OC Tweaker To set up overclocking features
Advanced
To set up the advanced UEFI features
H/W Monitor To display current hardware status
Boot
To set up the default system device to locate and load the
Operating System
Security
To set up the security features
Exit
To exit the current screen or the UEFI SETUP UTILITY
Use <
> key or <
> key to choose among the selections on the menu
bar, and then press <Enter> to get into the sub screen. You can also use the
mouse to click your required item.

43

3.1.2 Navigation Keys

Please check the following table for the function description of each navigation
key.
Navigation Key(s)
/
/
+ / -
<Tab>
<Enter>
<PGUP>
<PGDN>
<HOME>
<END>
<F1>
<F7>
<F9>
<F10>
<F12>
<ESC>

Function Description
Moves cursor left or right to select Screens
Moves cursor up or down to select items
To change option for the selected items
Switch to next function
To bring up the selected screen
Go to the previous page
Go to the next page
Go to the top of the screen
Go to the bottom of the screen
To display the General Help Screen
Discard changes and exit the UEFI SETUP UTILITY
Load optimal default values for all the settings
Save changes and exit the UEFI SETUP UTILITY
Print screen
Jump to the Exit Screen or exit the current screen

3.2 Main Screen

When you enter the UEFI SETUP UTILITY, the Main screen will appear and display
the system overview.

System Browser
System Browser can let you easily check your current system
configuration in UEFI setup.

44

3.3 OC Tweaker Screen

In the OC Tweaker screen, you can set up overclocking features.

Advanced Turbo 30
You can use this option to increase your system performance. This option
appears only when your CPU supports this function.
Load Optimized CPU OC Setting
You can use this option to load optimized CPU overclocking setting.
Please note that overclocing may cause damage to your CPU and motherboard. It should be done at your own risk and expense.
Load Optimized GPU OC Setting
You can use this option to load optimized GPU overclocking setting.
Please note that overclocing may cause damage to your GPU and motherboard. It should be done at your own risk and expense.
CPU Configuration
CPU Turbo Ratio
Use this item to change the ratio value of this motherboard.
Host Clock Override (BCLK)
Use this to adjust the host clock (BCLK) frequency. The default value is
[Auto].
Spread Spectrum
This item should always be [Auto] for better system stability.
Intel SpeedStep Technology
Intel SpeedStep technology is Intels new power saving technology. Processors can switch between multiple frequencies and voltage points to enable power saving. The default value is [Enabled]. Configuration options:
[Enabled] and [Disabled]. If you install Windows VistaTM / 7 and want to
enable this function, please set this item to [Enabled]. This item will be hidden if the current CPU does not support Intel SpeedStep technology.

45

Please note that enabling this function may reduce CPU voltage and lead to system
stability or compatibility issues with some power supplies. Please set this item to

[Disabled] if above issues occur.

Intel Turbo Boost Technology

Use this item to enable or disable Intel Turbo Boost Mode Technology.
Turbo Boost Mode allows processor cores to run faster than marked frequency in specific conditions. The default value is [Enabled].
Additional Turbo Voltage
Use this item to add voltage when CPU is in Turbo mode.
Internal PLL Overvoltage
Use this item to enable/disable CPU Internal PLL Overvoltage Function.
Long Duration Power Limit
Use this item to configure long duration power limit in watts. The default
value is [Auto].
Long Duration Maintained
Use this item to configure time window which the long duration power is
maintained. The default value is [Auto].
Short Duration Power Limit
Use this item to configure short duration power limit in watts. The default
value is [Auto].
Primary Plane Current Limit
Use this item to configure the maximum instantaneous current allowed for
the primary plane. The default value is [Auto].
Secondary Plane Current Limit
Use this item to configure the maximum instantaneous current allowed for
the secondary plane. The default value is [Auto].
GT OverClocking Support
Use this item to enable or disable GT OverClocking Support. The default
value is [Disabled].
DRAM Timing Configuration
Load XMP Setting
Use this to load XMP setting. Configuration options: [Auto], [Default], [Profile
1] and [Profile 2]. The default value is [Auto].
DRAM Frequency
If [Auto] is selected, the motherboard will detect the memory module(s)
inserted and assign the appropriate frequency automatically.

46

DRAM Timing Control

DRAM tCL
Use this item to change CAS# Latency (tCL) Auto/Manual setting. The
default is [Auto].
DRAM tRCD
Use this item to change RAS# to CAS# Delay (tRCD) Auto/Manual setting.
The default is [Auto].
DRAM tRP
Use this item to change Row Precharge Time (tRP) Auto/Manual setting.
The default is [Auto].
DRAM tRAS
Use this item to change RAS# Active Time (tRAS) Auto/Manual setting.
The default is [Auto].
Command Rate (CR)
Use this item to change Command Rate (CR) Auto/Manual setting. The
default is [Auto].
DRAM tWR
Use this item to change Write Recovery Time (tWR) Auto/Manual
The default is [Auto].
DRAM tRFC
Use this item to change Refresh Cyle Time (tRFC) Auto/Manual
The default is [Auto].
DRAM tRRD
Use this item to change RAS to RAS Delay (tRRD) Auto/Manual
The default is [Auto].
DRAM tWTR
Use this item to change Write to Read Delay (tWTR) Auto/Manual
The default is [Auto].

47

setting.

setting.

setting.

setting.

DRAM tRTP
Use this item to change Read to Precharge (tRTP) Auto/Manual setting.
The default is [Auto].
DRAM tFAW
Use this item to change Four Activate Window (tFAW) Auto/Manual setting. The default is [Auto].
DRAM tCWL
Use this item to change CAS# Write Latency (tCWL) Auto/Manual setting.
The default is [Auto].
ODT WR (CH A)
Use this item to change ODT WR (CH A) setting. The default is [Auto].
ODT WR (CH B)
Use this item to change ODT WR (CH B) setting. The default is [Auto].
ODT NOM (CH A)
Use this item to change ODT NOM (CH A) setting. The default is [Auto].
ODT NOM (CH B)

Use this item to change ODT NOM (CH B) setting. The default is [Auto].
MRC Fast Boot

Use this item to enable or disable MRC Fast Boot. The default is [Enabled].
Voltage Configuration
Power Saving Mode
Use this to enable or disable Power Saving Mode. The default value is
[Disabled].
CPU Voltage

Use this to select CPU Voltage. The default value is [Auto].
CPU Load-Line Calibration

CPU Load-Line Calibration helps prevent CPU voltage droop when the

system is under heavy load.
IGPU Voltage

Use this to select IGPU Voltage. The default value is [Auto].
IGPU Load-Line Calibration

IGPU Load-Line Calibration helps prevent IGPU voltage droop when the

system is under heavy load.
DRAM Voltage

Use this to select DRAM Voltage. The default value is [Auto].
VTT Voltage

Use this to select VTT Voltage. The default value is [Auto].
PCH Voltage

Use this to select PCH Voltage. The default value is [Auto].

48

CPU PLL Voltage

Use this to select CPU PLL Voltage. The default value is [Auto].
VCCSA Voltage

Use this to select VCCSA Voltage. The default value is [Auto].
User Defaults

In this option, you are allowed to load and save three user defaults

according to your own requirements.

49

3.4 Advanced Screen

In this section, you may set the configurations for the following items: CPU Configuration, North Bridge Configuration, South Bridge Configuration, Storage Configuration, Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology, Intel(R) Smart Connect Technology, Super IO
Configuration, ACPI Configuration and USB Configuration.

Setting wrong values in this section may cause

the system to malfunction.
Instant Flash
Instant Flash is a UEFI flash utility embedded in Flash ROM. This convenient UEFI update tool allows you to update system UEFI without entering operating systems first like MS-DOS or Windows. Just save the new
UEFI file to your USB flash drive, floppy disk or hard drive and launch this
tool, then you can update your UEFI only in a few clicks without preparing an additional floppy diskette or other complicated flash utility. Please
be noted that the USB flash drive or hard drive must use FAT32/16/12 file
system. If you execute Instant Flash utility, the utility will show the UEFI
files and their respective information. Select the proper UEFI file to update your UEFI, and reboot your system after the UEFI update process is
completed.

50

3.4.1 CPU Configuration

Intel Hyper Threading Technology

To enable this feature, a computer system with an Intel processor that supports Hyper-Threading technology and an operating system that includes
optimization for this technology, such as Microsoft Windows XP / VistaTM
/ 7 is required. Set to [Enabled] if using Microsoft Windows XP, VistaTM,
7, or Linux kernel version 2.4.18 or higher. This option will be hidden if the
installed CPU does not support Hyper-Threading technology.
Active Processor Cores
Use this item to select the number of cores to enable in each processor
package. The default value is [All].
Enhance Halt State (C1E)
All processors support the Halt State (C1). The C1 state is supported
through the native processor instructions HLT and MWAIT and requires no
hardware support from the chipset. In the C1 power state, the processor
maintains the context of the system caches.
CPU C3 State Support
Use this to enable or disable CPU C3 (ACPI C2) report to OS.
CPU C6 State Support
Use this to enable or disable CPU C6 (ACPI C3) report to OS.
Package C State Support
Selected option will program into C State package limit register. The
default value is [Auto].
CPU Thermal Throttling
You may select [Enabled] to enable CPU internal thermal control
mechanism to keep the CPU from overheating.

51

No-Execute Memory Protection

No-Execution (NX) Memory Protection Technology is an enhancement

to the IA-32 Intel Architecture. An IA-32 processor with No Execute (NX)

Memory Protection can prevent data pages from being used by malicious
software to execute codes. This option will be hidden if the current CPU
does not support No-Excute Memory Protection.
Intel Virtualization Technology
When this option is set to [Enabled], a VMM (Virtual Machine Architecture)
can utilize the additional hardware capabilities provided by Vanderpool
Technology. This option will be hidden if the installed CPU does not
support Intel Virtualization Technology.
Hardware Prefetcher
Use this item to turn on/off the MLC streamer prefetcher.
Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch
Use this item to turn on/off prefetching of adjacent cache lines.

52

3.4.2 North Bridge Configuration

Primary Graphics Adapter

This allows you to select [Onboard], [PCI] or [PCI Express] as the boot
graphic adapter priority. The default value is [PCI Express].

VT-d

Use this to enable or disable Intel VT-d technology (Intel Virtualization

Technology for Directed I/O). The default value of this feature is [Disabled].

PCIE 2 Link Speed

This allows you to select PCIE 2 Link Speed. The default value is [Auto].

Share Memory

This allows you to set onboard VGA share memory feature. The default

value is [Auto].

IGPU Multi-Moniter

This allows you to enable or disable IGPU Multi-Moniter. The default value

is [Enabled]. If you wish to install a PCI Express card under Windows XP

/ VistaTM OS, please disable this option.

Render Standby

Use this to enable or disable Render Standby by Internal Graphics Device.

The default value is [Enabled].

Deep Render Standby

This allows you to enable or disable Deep Render Standby. The default

value is [Enabled].

53

3.4.3 South Bridge Configuration

Onboard HD Audio
Select [Auto], [Enabled] or [Disabled] for the onboard HD Audio feature. If
you select [Auto], the onboard HD Audio will be disabled when PCI Sound
Card is plugged.
Front Panel
Select [Auto] or [Disabled] for the onboard HD Audio Front Panel.
On/Off Play
Use this item to enable or disable On/Off Play Technology. The default
value is [Enabled]. When On/Off Play is enabled, Deep Sleep will be disabled. If you want to enable Deep Sleep, please disable On/Off Play first.
Onboard HDMI HD Audio
This allows you to enable or disable the Onboard HDMI HD Audio feature.
Onboard LAN
This allows you to enable or disable the Onboard LAN feature.
Deep Sleep
Mobile platforms support Deep S4/S5 in DC only and desktop platforms
support Deep S4/S5 in AC only. The default value is [Enabled in S5].
Restore on AC/Power Loss
This allows you to set the power state after an unexpected AC/power loss.
If [Power Off] is selected, the AC/power remains off when the power
recovers. If [Power On] is selected, the AC/power resumes and the
system starts to boot up when the power recovers.
Good Night LED
Use this item to enable or disable Power LED and LAN LED.

54

3.4.4 Storage Configuration

SATA Controller(s)
Use this item to enable or disable the SATA Controller feature.
SATA Mode Selection
Use this to select SATA mode. Configuration options: [IDE Mode], [AHCI
Mode] and [RAID Mode]. The default value is [AHCI Mode].
AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface) supports NCQ and other
new features that will improve SATA disk performance but IDE mode
does not have these advantages.
SATA Aggressive Link Power Management
Use this item to configure Aggressive Link Power Management.
Hard Disk S.M.A.R.T.
Use this item to enable or disable the S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology) feature. Configuration options: [Disabled]
and [Enabled].

55

3.4.5 Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology

Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology

Use this item to enable or disable Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology. Intel(R)
Rapid Start Technology is a new zero power hibernation mode which allows users to resume in just 5-6 seconds. The default is [Disabled].

56

3.4.6 Intel(R) Smart Connect Technology

Intel(R) Smart Connect Technology

Use this item to enable or disable Intel(R) Smart Connect Technology.
Intel(R) Smart Connect Technology keeps your e-mail and social networks,
such as Twitter, Facebook, etc. updated automatically while the computer
is in sleep mode. The default is [Disabled].

57

3.4.7 Super IO Configuration

Serial Port
Use this item to enable or disable the onboard serial port.
Serial Port Address
Use this item to set the address for the onboard serial port. Configuration
options: [3F8h / IRQ4] and [3E8h / IRQ4].
Infrared Port
Use this item to enable or disable the onboard infrared port.

58

3.4.8 ACPI Configuration

Suspend to RAM
Use this item to select whether to auto-detect or disable the Suspend-toRAM feature. Selecting [Auto] will enable this feature if the OS supports it.
Check Ready Bit
Use this item to enable or disable the feature Check Ready Bit.
ACPI HPET Table
Use this item to enable or disable ACPI HPET Table. The default value is
[Enabled]. Please set this option to [Enabled] if you plan to use this
motherboard to submit Windows VistaTM certification.
PS/2 Keyboard Power On
Use this item to enable or disable PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system
from the power-soft-off mode.
PCI Devices Power On
Use this item to enable or disable PCI devices to turn on the system from
the power-soft-off mode.
Ring-In Power On
Use this item to enable or disable Ring-In signals to turn on the system
from the power-soft-off mode.
RTC Alarm Power On
Use this item to enable or disable RTC (Real Time Clock) to power on the
system.
USB Keyboard/Remote Power On
Use this item to enable or disable USB Keyboard/Remote to turn on the
system from the power-soft-off mode.
USB Mouse Power On
Use this item to enable or disable USB Mouse to turn on the system from
the power-soft-off mode.

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OMG (Online Management Guard)

Administrators are able to establish an internet curfew or restrict internet
access at specified times via OMG. You may choose from [Everyday], [Day
of the week] or [Weekdays and weekends], then schedule the starting and
ending hours of internet access granted to other users. In order to prevent
users from bypassing OMG, guest accounts without permission to modify
the system time are required.

3.4.9 USB Configuration

USB 2.0 Controller

Use this item to enable or disable the use of USB 2.0 controller.
USB 3.0 Controller
Use this item to enable or disable the use of USB 3.0 controller.
Legacy USB Support
Use this option to select legacy support for USB devices. There are four
configuration options: [Enabled], [Auto], [Disabled] and [UEFI Setup Only].
The default value is [Enabled]. Please refer to below descriptions for the
details of these four options:
[Enabled] - Enables support for legacy USB.
[Auto] - Enables legacy support if USB devices are connected.
[Disabled] - USB devices are not allowed to use under legacy OS and
UEFI setup when [Disabled] is selected. If you have USB compatibility issues, it is recommended to select [Disabled] to enter OS.
[UEFI Setup Only] - USB devices are allowed to use only under UEFI
setup and Windows / Linux OS.
Legacy USB 3.0 Support
Use this option to enable or disable legacy support for USB 3.0 devices.
The default value is [Enabled].

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3.5 Hardware Health Event Monitoring Screen

In this section, it allows you to monitor the status of the hardware on your system,
including the parameters of the CPU temperature, motherboard temperature, CPU
fan speed, chassis fan speed, and the critical voltage.

CPU Fan 1 & 2 Setting

This allows you to set CPU fan 1 & 2s speed. Configuration options: [Full
On] and [Automatic Mode]. The default value is [Full On].
Chassis Fan 1 Setting
This allows you to set chassis fan 1s speed. Configuration options:
[Full On], [Automatic Mode] and [Manual]. The default value is [Full On].
Chassis Fan 2 Setting
This allows you to set chassis fan 2s speed. Configuration options:
[Full On] and [Manual]. The default value is [Full On].
Over Temperature Protection
Use this to enable or disable Over Temperature Protection. The default
value is [Enabled].

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3.6 Boot Screen

In this section, it will display the available devices on your system for you to configure the boot settings and the boot priority.

Setup Prompt Timeout

This shows the number of seconds to wait for setup activation key.
65535(0XFFFF) means indefinite waiting.
Bootup Num-Lock
If this item is set to [On], it will automatically activate the Numeric Lock
function after boot-up.
PCI ROM Priority
Use this item to adjust PCI ROM Priority. The default value is [Legacy
ROM].
Full Screen Logo
Use this item to enable or disable OEM Logo. The default value is
[Enabled].
AddOn ROM Display
Use this option to adjust AddOn ROM Display. If you enable the option
Full Screen Logo but you want to see the AddOn ROM information
when the system boots, please select [Enabled]. Configuration options:
[Enabled] and [Disabled]. The default value is [Enabled].
Boot From Onboard LAN
Use this item to enable or disable the Boot From Onboard LAN feature.
Boot Failure Guard
Enable or disable the feature of Boot Failure Guard.
Boot Failure Guard Count
Use this item to configure Boot Failure Guard Count.

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3.7 Security Screen

In this section, you may set or change the supervisor/user password for the system.
For the user password, you may also clear it.

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3.8 Exit Screen

Save Changes and Exit

When you select this option, the following message Save configuration
changes and exit setup? will pop-out. Select [Yes] to save the changes
and exit the UEFI SETUP UTILITY.
Discard Changes and Exit
When you select this option, the following message Discard changes and
exit setup? will pop-out. Select [Yes] to exit the UEFI SETUP UTILITY
without saving any changes.
Discard Changes
When you select this option, the following message Discard changes?
will pop-out. Select [Yes] to discard all changes.
Load UEFI Defaults
Load UEFI default values for all the setup questions. F9 key can be used
for this operation.
Launch EFI Shell from filesystem device
Attempts to Launch EFI Shell application (Shell64.efi) from one of the
available filesystem devices.

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Chapter 4: Software Support

4.1 Install Operating System
This motherboard supports various Microsoft Windows operating systems: 7 / 7
64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit / XP / XP 64-bit. Because motherboard settings and
hardware options vary, use the setup procedures in this chapter for general reference only. Refer to your OS documentation for more information.
4.2 Support CD Information
The Support CD that came with the motherboard contains necessary drivers and
useful utilities that enhance the motherboards features.
4.2.1 Running The Support CD
To begin using the support CD, insert the CD into your CD-ROM drive. The
CD automatically displays the Main Menu if AUTORUN is enabled in your
computer. If the Main Menu does not appear automatically, locate and double
click on the file ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder in the Support CD to display the menu.
4.2.2 Drivers Menu
The Drivers Menu shows the available devices drivers if the system detects
installed devices. Please install the necessary drivers to activate the devices.

4.2.3 Utilities Menu
The Utilities Menu shows the application softwares that the motherboard supports. Click on a specific item then follow the installation wizard to install it.
4.2.4 Contact Information
If you need to contact ASRock or want to know more about ASRock, welcome
to visit ASRocks website at http://www.asrock.com; or you may contact your
dealer for further information.

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Installing OS on a HDD Larger Than 2TB in AHCI Mode

This motherboard adopts UEFI BIOS that allows Windows OS to be installed on a
large size HDD (>2TB). Please follow the procedures below to install the operating
system.
1. Please make sure to use Windows VistaTM 64-bit (with SP2 or above) or
Windows 7 64-bit (with SP1 or above).
2. Press <F2> or <Delete> at system POST. Set AHCI Mode in UEFI Setup Utility >
Advanced > Storage Configuration > SATA Mode.
3. Choose the item UEFI:xxx to boot in UEFI Setup Utility > Boot > Boot Option #1.
(xxx is the device which contains your Windows installation files. Normally it is
an optical drive.) You can also press <F11> to launch boot menu at system POST
and choose the item UEFI:xxx to boot.
4. Start Windows installation.

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Installing OS on a HDD Larger Than 2TB in RAID Mode

This motherboard adopts UEFI BIOS that allows Windows OS to be installed on a
large size HDD (>2TB). Please follow the procedures below to install the operating
system.
1. Please make sure to use Windows VistaTM 64-bit (with SP2 or above) or
Windows 7 64-bit (with SP1 or above).
2. Copy Intel RAID drivers into a USB flash disk. You can download the driver from
ASRock's website and unzip the file into a USB flash disk OR copy the file from
ASRock motherboard support CD. (please copy the files under following directory:
32 bit: ..\i386\Win7_Vista_Intel_v11.0.0.1032
64-bit: ..\AMD64\Win7-64_Vista64_Intel_v11.0.0.1032
3. Create RAID array for you system. Please refer to "Intel RAID Installation Guide"
file for details.
4. Install Windows VistaTM 64-bit / 7 64-bit:
A. Insert your Windows VistaTM 64-bit / 7 64-bit installation disc to the optical
drive.
B. Press <F11> to launch boot menu at system POST and choose the item
UEFI:xxx to boot.
C. Start Windows Installation. When you see Where do you want to install
Windows? page, please click Load Driver.

D. Plug the USB flash disk into your USB port; select Browse to find the RAID
driver. Then choose the directory (xx\AMD64\) you have copied in the first
step.

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E. Please keep the USB flash disk installed until the system's first reboot.
F. Continue to install OS by following the Windows instructions.
5. Follow Windows Installation Guide to install OS.
If you install Windows 7 64-bit / VistaTM 64-bit on a large hard disk (ex.
Disk volume > 2TB), it may take more time to boot into Windows or install
driver/utilities. If you encounter this problem, you will need to follow the
instructions below to fix this problem.
Windows VistaTM 64-bit:
Microsoft does not provide hotfix for this problem. The steps listed below
are Microsoft's suggested solution:
A. Disable System Restore.
a. Type systempropertiesprotection in the Start Menu. Then press
"Enter".

b. De-select Local Disks for System Restore. Then Click Turn System
Restore Off to confirm. Then Press Ok.

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B. Disable Volume Shadow Copy service.

a. Type computer management in the Start Menu, then press Enter.

b. Go to Services and Applications>Services; Then double click Volume

Shadow Copy.

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c. Set Startup type to Disable then Click OK.

C. Reboot your system.

D. After reboot, please start to install motherboard drivers and utilities.
Windows 7 64-bit:
A. Please request the hotfix KB2505454 through this link:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2505454/
B. After installing Windows 7 64-bit, install the hotfix kb2505454.
(This may take a long time; >30 mins.)
C. Reboot your system. (It may take about 5 minutes to reboot.)
D. Windows will install this hotfix then reboot by itself.
E. Please start to install motherboard drivers and utilities.
6. Finish.

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